Choosing the right size for your climbing shoes is crucial for both performance and comfort. Unlike regular footwear, climbing shoes need to fit more snugly to provide precision and control—without causing excessive pain. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing the right size:
1. Snug Fit, Not Painful
Climbing shoes should fit closely and securely, as this helps improve precision when standing on small footholds or climbing holds.
However, they should not cause intense pain or numbness.
You should feel some light compression, especially in the toes, which are often slightly curled inside the shoe. This is normal—but it shouldn’t be unbearable.
2. Sizing Differences from Regular Shoes
Climbing shoes usually fit smaller than your street shoes.
It’s common for climbers to choose climbing shoes between half a size to two sizes smaller than their everyday shoes.
- Beginners: A more comfortable fit is advisable—perhaps only half a size or one size down from your usual shoes.
- Intermediate/Advanced climbers: May prefer tighter shoes—up to two sizes down—for more precision on technical routes.
3. Type of Climbing
- Sport climbing or long routes: If you’ll be wearing the shoes for several hours, go for a more comfortable fit, even if you sacrifice some precision.
- Bouldering or technical climbs: For short, intense routes that demand precise movements, a tighter fit is often better—since you’ll be wearing them for shorter periods.
4. Material of the Shoe
- Leather: Leather climbing shoes tend to stretch over time—by half a size to a full size. If you choose leather, keep in mind they’ll mould to your feet after a few sessions.
- Synthetic: Synthetic materials stretch far less. The way they fit initially will stay mostly the same, so make sure they feel right from the start.
5. Foot Shape and Type
Different brands and models use different lasts (shapes). It’s important to find a model that matches the shape of your foot (wide, narrow, etc.).
Some brands are better for wider or narrower feet, so it’s worth trying a few to see what fits your foot anatomy best.
6. Try Them On – In-Store or at Home
If possible, try climbing shoes in-store or at home. Walk around briefly, and try standing on small edges or objects to simulate climbing.
Make sure the heel doesn’t slip and there are no empty spaces inside the shoe.
Your toes should be curled, but not painfully bent or crushed.
7. Specific Models
Some climbing shoes are designed with comfort in mind (recommended for beginners or long routes), while others are meant to be worn tightly for advanced technical climbing.
Summary
- Beginners: Choose a size around half to one full size smaller than your street shoes.
- Intermediate/Advanced climbers: Go for a tighter fit—one to two sizes down.
- Consider the material (leather vs synthetic) and type of climbing (long vs technical).
- Always ensure the fit is snug—but not excessively painful.
With time, you’ll get used to how a well-fitting climbing shoe should feel, depending on your level and climbing style.
